no churn pistachio ice cream is summer embodied. I remember the first time I tasted pistachio ice cream; it was on a family trip to Italy. The vibrant green color and the nutty, slightly sweet flavor instantly transported me to a sun drenched piazza. Years later, I wanted to recreate that experience at home. This recipe for no churn pistachio ice cream is so easy, you don’t need an ice cream maker, and the flavor is just as unforgettable. This recipe is a quick way to bring an elegant dessert to your table, anytime.
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Why You Will Love This no churn pistachio ice cream Recipe
This no churn pistachio ice cream recipe is the answer to your summer dessert dreams! It’s comforting, quick, and bursting with authentic pistachio flavor. No need to haul out the ice cream maker; this recipe skips that step entirely, making it incredibly easy to whip up on a whim.
The simplicity of this recipe doesn’t compromise on taste. The creamy texture and rich pistachio flavor create a sophisticated treat that’s sure to impress. Plus, it’s a delightful way to cool off on a hot day. Share it with friends and family or keep it all to yourself – I won’t judge! It’s even easier than vanilla!
Ingredients Needed for This no churn pistachio ice cream Recipe
- 2 cups heavy cream: Provides the rich, creamy base for the ice cream.
- 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk: Adds sweetness and contributes to the smooth texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile and adds warmth.
- 1 cup shelled pistachios, unsalted: The star of the show! Make sure they’re unsalted for the best flavor control.
- 1/4 teaspoon almond extract: Enhances the pistachio flavor.
- Green food coloring (optional): Adds a vibrant green hue, reminiscent of traditional pistachio ice cream.
- Pinch of sea salt: Balances out the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
How to Make This no churn pistachio ice cream Recipe
- Roughly chop the pistachios. Reserve about 1/4 cup for topping.
- In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.
- In a separate bowl, gently fold together the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, almond extract, salt, and optional green food coloring (if using).
- Gently fold the sweetened condensed milk mixture into the whipped cream until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in the chopped pistachios (reserving some for topping).
- Pour the mixture into a freezer safe container (like a loaf pan).
- Sprinkle the remaining chopped pistachios on top.
- Cover the container with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the ice cream to prevent ice crystals from forming.
- Freeze for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, until solid.
- Before serving, let the ice cream soften for a few minutes at room temperature for easier scooping.
How to Serve This no churn pistachio ice cream Recipe
This no churn pistachio ice cream is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the experience with some simple serving ideas. Consider pairing it with fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries. A drizzle of honey or a sprinkle of sea salt can also enhance the flavor.
For a more decadent treat, serve it alongside a warm brownie or a slice of pistachio cake. Garnish with extra chopped pistachios, a sprig of mint, or a dollop of whipped cream for a beautiful presentation. You could also create individual pistachio ice cream bars using popsicle molds for a fun and refreshing treat.
How to Store This no churn pistachio ice cream Recipe
To store your homemade no churn pistachio ice cream, transfer it to an airtight container. Press a layer of plastic wrap directly onto the surface of the ice cream before sealing the container to minimize ice crystal formation.
This ice cream will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 weeks. After that, the texture may start to deteriorate. When ready to serve, let it soften at room temperature for a few minutes for easier scooping. Avoid refreezing melted ice cream as this will negatively impact the texture.
Tips to Make This no churn pistachio ice cream Recipe
- Toast the pistachios: Lightly toasting the pistachios before chopping them will bring out their natural nutty flavor even more. Be careful not to burn them.
- Use high quality pistachios: The better the quality of your pistachios, the better the flavor of your ice cream will be. Look for vibrant green pistachios with a fresh, nutty aroma.
- Don’t overmix: Overmixing the ice cream base can result in a dense, less airy texture. Gently fold the ingredients together until just combined.
- Add a touch of alcohol: A tablespoon of clear liquor, such as vodka or gin, can help prevent ice crystals from forming and keep the ice cream scoopable.
- Use high quality vanilla.
Helpful Notes for This no churn pistachio ice cream Recipe
For the best results, make sure your heavy cream is very cold before whipping. Chilling your mixing bowl beforehand can also help.
If you don’t have sweetened condensed milk on hand, you can make your own by simmering milk and sugar on the stovetop until it thickens. However, using store bought sweetened condensed milk is much more convenient. Experiment with different extracts to customize the flavor. For a more sophisticated twist, try adding a splash of rosewater.
Variation of This no churn pistachio ice cream Recipe
- Chocolate Pistachio: Swirl in melted dark chocolate or chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
- Pistachio Swirl: Create a pistachio swirl by blending a portion of the ice cream base with more pistachios and a touch of green food coloring, then swirling it into the remaining ice cream before freezing.
- Salted Caramel Pistachio: Add a layer of salted caramel sauce to the bottom of the freezer safe container before pouring in the ice cream mixture. You can also swirl it throughout the ice cream.
Do I need an ice cream maker for this recipe?
No, this recipe is designed to be no churn, meaning you don’t need an ice cream maker. It’s a simpler and quicker way to enjoy homemade pistachio ice cream.
What ingredients do I need to make no churn pistachio ice cream?
The basic ingredients include heavy cream, sweetened condensed milk, pistachios, and vanilla extract. You can customize the recipe with additional flavors or mix-ins as desired.
How do I store no churn pistachio ice cream?
Store the no churn pistachio ice cream in an airtight container in the freezer. It’s best to let it soften slightly before serving for optimal texture.
Can I use salted pistachios for this recipe?
Yes, you can use salted pistachios, but consider reducing the amount of any extra salt added to the recipe. The saltiness can enhance the flavor, but be mindful of the overall balance.
In conclusion, this no churn pistachio ice cream is the ultimate summer dessert—simple, refreshing, and full of authentic pistachio flavor. With no special equipment required, it’s the perfect recipe to enjoy a creamy, homemade treat anytime the craving hits.
For more easy frozen desserts, no-bake treats, and creative sweet ideas, be sure to visit my Pinterest! You’ll find plenty of inspiration to make every season delicious.
No Churn Pistachio Ice Cream: Easiest Recipe EVER!
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Easy and delicious no churn pistachio ice cream. Skip the ice cream maker and enjoy this simple, flavorful homemade treat!
Ingredients
- 2 cups heavy creamn1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milkn1 teaspoon vanilla extractn1 cup shelled pistachios, unsaltedn1/4 teaspoon almond extractnGreen food coloring (optional)nPinch of sea salt
Instructions
- Roughly chop the pistachios. Reserve about 1/4 cup for topping.nIn a large bowl, whip the heavy cream with an electric mixer until stiff peaks form. Be careful not to overwhip.nIn a separate bowl, gently fold together the sweetened condensed milk, vanilla extract, almond extract, salt, and optional green food coloring (if using).nGently fold the sweetened condensed milk mixture into the whipped cream until just combined. Do not overmix.nFold in the chopped pistachios (reserving some for topping).nPour the mixture into a freezer safe container (like a loaf pan).nSprinkle the remaining chopped pistachios on top.nCover the container with plastic wrap, pressing it directly onto the surface of the ice cream to prevent ice crystals from forming.nFreeze for at least 6 hours, or preferably overnight, until solid.nBefore serving, let the ice cream soften for a few minutes at room temperature for easier scooping.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 80mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: no churn, ice cream, pistachio, easy, dessert